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Top registered nursing (RN) programs in Oregon

Registered nurses (RNs) are highly valued for their confidence in the medical arena, leadership skills, and awareness of current ethical and social issues. This caliber of service requires excellent education and advanced clinical experience. Oregon’s aspiring RNs may accomplish this through one of two pathways: an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).

Overview of BSN programs The most conventional route to RN licensure is a four-year BSN degree. The BSN covers general education requirements as well as nursing science and clinical practice. Oregon Health & Science University conducts the state’s public BSN program on its Portland campus, with satellite offerings at several other state universities. A handful of private colleges, like Concordia University and University of Portland, also offer BSN programs. Interestingly, OHSU and Linfield College both offer an accelerated BSN curriculum, which enables holders of non-nursing degrees to earn a BSN in just 12 to 18 months.

Overview of ADN programs Another route to RN licensure is the ADN. This two-year program is shorter in duration and thus suitable for nurses who seek rapid entry into the healthcare industry. Like their BSN counterparts, ADN students must pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam upon graduation. Oregon offers over 15 accredited ADN programs. The vast majority are conducted by the state’s network of community colleges.

Employment prospects for registered nurses Regardless of education pathway, Oregon’s RNs can expect attractive career opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state’s 28,000 RNs earn a median annual income of $80,360. Top local hospitals like Oregon Health & Science University Hospital, Providence Portland Medical Center, and Legacy Good Samaritan Center are always hiring newly minted RNs.